AVOCADO CONSUMPTION AND HEALTH OUTCOMES: A COMPREHENSIVE META-ANALYSIS OF CLINICAL STUDIES

Background: Avocados are rich in monounsaturated fats, fiber, antioxidants, and various micronutrients, making them a potentially beneficial component of a heart-healthy diet. However, the overall effect of avocado consumption on cardio metabolic health remains unclear due to variability in individual study outcomes. Objective: To systematically review and quantitatively synthesize evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies assessing the impact of avocado consumption on cardio metabolic risk factors, including blood lipids, glucose metabolism, body weight, and blood pressure. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library up to [insert date]. Eligible studies included RCTs and cohort studies that reported associations between avocado consumption and at least one cardio metabolic outcome. Data were extracted independently by two reviewers and pooled using random-effects meta-analysis models. Heterogeneity and publication bias were assessed using I² statistics and funnel plots, respectively. Results: A total of [X] studies (n = [Y] participants) met the inclusion criteria. Avocado consumption was significantly associated with reductions in total cholesterol (mean difference: –X.X mg/dL; 95% CI: –X.X to –X.X), LDL-C, and triglycerides, while HDL-C showed a modest increase. Improvements were also observed in fasting glucose and insulin sensitivity in a subset of studies. No significant effect was found on body weight or BMI across most trials. Heterogeneity was moderate to high, but subgroup analyses by duration and dosage provided consistent patterns. Conclusions: Avocado consumption may contribute to improved lipid profiles and glycemic control without promoting weight gain, suggesting a potentially favorable role in cardiometabolic health. Further long-term and high-quality trials are warranted to confirm these findings and explore underlying mechanisms.